Hamlet BioPharma reports progress in tuberculosis therapy research
Hamlet BioPharma has published study findings on its antimicrobial peptide NZ2114, showing it can overcome the tuberculosis bacterium's defenses and enhance existing treatments.
Lund, Sweden – Hamlet BioPharma announced on June 17, 2025, advancements in tuberculosis therapy development. The company's research group, specializing in drugs for cancer and infections, has investigated the antimicrobial peptide NZ2114.
The study highlights NZ2114, a plectasin variant, as a promising therapeutic candidate against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It demonstrates the ability to overcome the bacterium's uniquely complex, lipid-rich, and low-permeability membrane.
NZ2114 has shown potent antimycobacterial activity and synergizes with first-line TB drugs like isoniazid and ethambutol. The peptide also remains stable in serum and is non-toxic to human cells, positioning it as a strong candidate for future treatment strategies.
Antimicrobial effects were also observed against clinical isolates of Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). In a murine TB infection model, NZ2114 significantly reduced the tuberculosis bacterium after three doses.
These findings suggest NZ2114's potential in developing new tuberculosis therapies, a critical step in controlling this significant infectious disease. This development adds to the company's ongoing pipeline focused on cancer and infection treatments.